Counseling Center at Cinco Ranch
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By: Ally Hoffman MA, LPC Associate Supervised by Melissa Barton MA, LPC-S In June, we recognize Pride. We hear a lot about being an ally of the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, intersex, asexual, plus (LGBTQIA+) community. There is much confusion about what it means to be an ally. For instance, some might still wonder […]
In June, we recognize Pride. We hear a lot about being an ally of the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, intersex, asexual, plus (LGBTQIA+) community. There is much confusion about what it means to be an ally. For instance, some might still wonder what is expected. They may wonder what is involved, and how to best show their support.
Ambiguity can be challenging to understand. When discussing gender identity or expression, and sexual orientation, we often have to dabble in shades of grey. As such, it is essential to familiarize ourselves with some helpful language surrounding some of the nuances of this population.
According to Dictionary.com, an Ally is “a person, group, or nation that is associated with another or others for some common cause or purpose.” This encompasses the idea that we do not have to be the same to support their cause. However, allies frequently have some level of influence. They are known to use that power as a platform to encourage visibility and or acceptance of an idea or population.
Gender identity is an individual’s internal expression of self. Whereas gender expression is more external. An external expression can include many different things. Such as: what a person chooses to wear, how they style their hair, or apply cosmetics or not. Exterior features are often influenced by our societal view of masculine and feminine. Additionally, they often reflect the dominant culture’s values in specific areas. On the other hand, sexual expression can be the attraction one might feel physically and/or emotionally to other individuals. It is critical that allies make an effort to educate themselves and utilize the appropriate language to the best of their ability.
Well, looky there! You have already taken a step in the right direction! Just by clicking this link! What’s important is to take the initiative to find the information. You can do this with online research or by asking questions of community members. Seek out resources in your local area. We must recognize our biases, and be open to criticism.
It is equally important to keep an open mind while learning. For example, not every individual associated with the LGBTQIA+ community feels oppressed. Therefore, be willing to hear each person’s story. Learning is a lifelong process! We each have the power to create a ripple effect for these individuals.
Clearly, awareness and action are where the grit meets the grindstone. Being an ally involves staying up to date on current issues! For example, how it affects the population. It’s crucial, as an ally, to utilize those moments to educate others and begin creating the change we would like to see in the world.
If you are ready to become an Ally and LGBTQIA+ supporter, the therapists at the Counseling Center at Cinco Ranch can help! To begin counseling in Katy, TX follow these three steps:
Here at The Counseling Center at Cinco Ranch, we offer counseling services for people of all ages in areas including counseling for kids, counseling for young adults, teen counseling, couples counseling, eating disorder treatment, men’s issues, women’s issues, anxiety treatment, depression therapy, trauma counseling, family therapy, and group counseling. Our therapists strive to post blogs regularly. We provide helpful information on a variety of mental health topics. To learn more about our therapists and counseling services, please reach out to the Counseling Center today!
By: Carey Robey, MS, LPC While conflicts are a normal part of any relationship, they can often lead to arguments and fights that increase our stress and anxiety and can cause rifts in our relationships. Learning conflict resolution skills can assist you in maintaining healthy boundaries, increase healthy communication skills, and lead you to improved […]
While conflicts are a normal part of any relationship, they can often lead to arguments and fights that increase our stress and anxiety and can cause rifts in our relationships. Learning conflict resolution skills can assist you in maintaining healthy boundaries, increase healthy communication skills, and lead you to improved relationships. These are a few tips you can start utilizing today to resolve conflicts in a healthy way and keep relationships and mental health strong.
A Few Ways To Have Healthy Conflict ResolutionFirstly, remember that a conflict is a disagreement. Sometimes these disagreements may be big, but make the relationship the priority. Conflicts continue to fester when they are ignored. Be sure that you do not fear addressing the issue. Ignoring a problem, whether real or perceived, can lead to resentment. When addressing the problem, be sure you are in a calm and open state of mind.
If you need a few minutes to collect yourself, take the time to do so. This avoids things getting heated and the potential of someone losing control. Some conflicts may trigger strong emotions and it is important that we prepare for this- be mindful and recall your coping skills.
Secondly, it is essential that we understand and state our needs when trying to resolve conflicts and work towards being understanding and compassionate to the needs of others. Be aware of how and what you are communicating and avoid any disrespectful words or comments- also, facial expressions! If you notice the urge to engage in this, it’s time for a break.
Let whomever you are in conflict with know you need a few minutes, but will return to resolve the issue later. While you may be tempted to not return, it is important to do so to allow for resolution and avoid any chance of resentment or pent up negative feelings later. When communicating with the person you are in conflict with, be sure to focus on facts and express your feelings; try to avoid placing blame.
Remember it is okay to agree to disagree. There may be times when conflicts are not resolved in the way you’d prefer. Think of what your responsibility is in the situation and what you have control over. Is there anything you can do to improve your circumstance?
Resolving conflicts in a healthy way provides opportunity for self-growth and can lead to stronger and healthier relationships. If you notice conflict being frequent, try to notice causes. When we can recognize the cause of a conflict, we can work towards avoiding it. Remember to utilize coping skills if things get heated. Do not be afraid to take a time-out. Need more tips? Come in for therapy to work on how to better manage emotions, assert boundaries, and increase healthy communication.
If you are ready to find relief from conflict in your relationship, the therapists at The Counseling Center at Cinco Ranch can help! We provide therapy to people of all ages. To begin counseling in Katy, TX, follow these three steps:
Here at The Counseling Center at Cinco Ranch we offer treatment services for adults, teens, kids, couples and families. We offer counseling services in trauma counseling, counseling for kids, counseling for young adults, teen counseling, couples counseling, eating disorder treatment, depression treatment, men’s issues, women’s issues, family therapy, and group counseling. Our therapists strive to regularly post blogs with helpful information on a variety of mental health topics. To learn more about our therapists and our counseling services, please reach out to the Counseling Center today!
By: Denise Servin, M. Ed., LPC Intern Self-esteem is a tricky thing. It can help you get through some tough times. But, typically tough times can cause your level of self-esteem to drop. Overall, women tend to have lower self-esteem than men. It can be especially difficult for women to maintain a healthy level of […]
Self-esteem is a tricky thing. It can help you get through some tough times. But, typically tough times can cause your level of self-esteem to drop. Overall, women tend to have lower self-esteem than men. It can be especially difficult for women to maintain a healthy level of self-esteem. Keeping up with all of the pressures from society to not only do everything, but to do it better is a struggle. The myth of women “having it all” often leads to feelings of competition and decreased self-esteem.
Low self-esteem may seem like it shouldn’t be high on your list of things to worry about. But, it can lead to an overall loss of interest in the things you were once passionate about and unhappiness with life. Hence, having low self-esteem can also make it harder to get back up again after a set-back. This is especially true if these feelings last for a long time. More serious effects of low self-esteem include increased anxiety, depression, and eating disorder-related behaviors.
I feel like my self-esteem has definitely taken some hits lately. Maybe it’s never really been as high as I would like it to be. What can I do?
Are you starting to feel hopeless or helpless about the direction of your life? Do you have trouble taking credit for anything good you accomplish? Do you ever feel like every last detail has to be perfect, or there’s no point in even trying? Maybe you just don’t like yourself at all anymore and you don’t believe anyone else could like you either. Counseling can help with low self-esteem in many ways. Working with a therapist can help you get to know your true self, learn about boundaries, and increase your self-respect.
Increasing your self-esteem with the help of a therapist is not easy. It’s hard work. But, it’s worth it. The benefits of increasing your self-esteem include positive changes in the way you value yourself, an increase in seeking positive, healthy relationships, and healthier ways to cope with the challenges of life. Our therapists at the Counseling Center can help you on this journey.
Please contact our office to discuss your therapy needs or arrange an initial consultation with Denise.
The Counseling Center at Cinco Ranch in Katy, TX, offers counseling services to help you increase your self-esteem. We also offer other counseling services including: trauma counseling, depression treatment, eating disorder treatment, counseling for anxiety, family counseling, counseling for kids, counseling for teens, counseling for young adults, and couples counseling. Our therapists regularly post helpful information on a variety of mental health topics. Stay tuned for the next blog! To learn more about our therapists and our counseling services, please reach out to the Center today!
